Dash
What happens when a war comes between a girl and her dog?
Although Mitsi Kashino and her family are swept up in the wave of anti-Japanese sentiment following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mitsi never expects to lose her home — or her beloved dog, Dash. But, as World War II rages and people of Japanese descent are forced into incarceration camps, Mitsi is separated from Dash, her classmates, and life as she knows it. The camp is a crowded, uncomfortable and unfamiliar place. They’ve lost their home – will the Kashinos also lose their sense of family? And will Mitsi and Dash ever be reunited?
Awards
- Scott O’Dell Historical Fiction Award
- Capitol Choices Nomination
- Horned Toad Tales Award
- Nebraska Golden Sowers Award
- NAPPA Gold Award
- South Carolina Young Reader’s Choice Award
- CBC Hot off the Press Featured Book
- BEA Galleys to Grab
Resources
- Dogs of WWII Discussion Guide (pdf)
- Densho is an organization dedicated to recording the oral histories of those incarcerated in the War Relocation Camps of WWII
- Visit the Japanese War Exclusion Memorial on Bainbridge Island, WA
Dash
What happens when a war comes between a girl and her dog?
Although Mitsi Kashino and her family are swept up in the wave of anti-Japanese sentiment following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mitsi never expects to lose her home — or her beloved dog, Dash. But, as World War II rages and people of Japanese descent are forced into incarceration camps, Mitsi is separated from Dash, her classmates, and life as she knows it. The camp is a crowded, uncomfortable and unfamiliar place. They’ve lost their home – will the Kashinos also lose their sense of family? And will Mitsi and Dash ever be reunited?
Reviews
★ “Larson centers this trenchant novel on a child dealing with hardships on the home front during WWII, including separation from a beloved dog. Inspired by real-life wartime events, the novel vividly communicates the emotional and physical ordeals endured by Japanese Americans after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. After learning of her family’s impending relocation, Mitsi is devastated to discover that her one steadfast ally, her dog Dash, cannot accompany them. Despite the hurdles Mitsi faces, hope, resourcefulness, and a new friend help this relatable heroine triumph.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “Larson makes this terrible event in American history personal with the story of one girl and her beloved pet. Spot-on dialogue, careful cultural details and the inclusion of specific historical characters such as artist Eddie Sato make this an educational read as well as a heartwarming one. This emotionally satisfying and thought-provoking book will have readers pulling for Mitsi and Dash.” —Kirkus, starred review
“Larson’s latest is historical fiction at its best.” —Sharon Lawler, Texas Bluebonnet Award Committee
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- Mitsi with Chubby
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- Relocation poster
